An innovative service learning program for MPH students: Applying problem-based learning in community settings

This session describes the fieldwork and Capstone components of University of Washington School of Public Health's Community-Oriented Public Health Practice Program (COPHP). The 2002 Institute of Medicine Report on educating public health professionals calls for Schools of Public Health to train future practitioners by connecting them to the communities they serve. Through a unique arrangement with Public Health – Seattle & King County (PHSKC), all first year MPH students are placed in practicum assignments that complement their coursework. This field experience provides students an opportunity to integrate academic training and practice within a local health department. Practicum projects include community assessment, health education, program planning and evaluation, policy development and community mobilization. All students are mentored by masters level staff and the program is managed by a PHSKC prevention specialist with an academic appointment in COPHP. The result is a service learning experience that is mutually beneficial to PHSKC, the students, the university and the King County community. Our students perform such important work that we have more projects available than students. Second year COPHP students spend a full year on a Capstone project in a community or public health agency. Capstone goals are to contribute to solving a community health problem, to develop advanced public health assessment and problem-solving skills, and to develop comprehensive knowledge in an area of special interest. Projects must be evidence-based and have practical value. Students are required to submit an extensive written summary of their Capstone project, and to do a professional oral presentation.